The Philadelphia Phillies were looking to trade Ryan Howard this offseason because he's been slacking over the years and he's owed too much money to keep him. So far, it's been very hard to find a team willing to take him in. The Philadelphia Phillies are expected to pay the majority of his massive salary and leave a team around 10 million to pay on his contract according to Ken Rosenthal. At the beginning of the offseason, there were a few American League teams the had showed interest. Most of them have fill their needs with costless agents or trades. Therefore, they wouldn't be in need of his services.
According to Jerry Crasnick, Ryan Howard has the ability to block trades to 20 teams. Nine of them he could go to. The team to remember is the Tampa Bay Rays. If the Phillies are willing to pay the majority of that salary he could be the fit as they were the top choice at the beginning of the offseason. They seem to still be a choice especially since they've cleared some space. They also bolstered their prospects via numerous trades. Also, they have a need at designated player and could use a big bat to replace Longoria.
The problem with Ryan Howard other than the contract is the decline in production. Howard is 35 years old and it is evident his production is on the decline. Finally, his health has been an issue.
Ken Rosenthal on Ryan Howard:
"Howard, according to major-league sources, even revised his nine-team no-trade list at the end of the season to help facilitate a trade, choosing mostly teams that were either set at first base/DH, unlikely to add payroll or focused on other needs.
Considering the good faith that Howard showed in crafting his list, he probably would approve a deal to even to one of his restricted clubs. The Mariners, who began the season needing right-handed hitting, are one such team. The rest of the list, according to ESPN.com, consists of the Tigers, Royals, Angels, Yankees, Rangers, Rays, Orioles and Red Sox."